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People at Venkatesan Nagar in Velachery face three issues — illegal parking, indiscriminate dumping of garbage, and stray animals feeding on it -- all at a vacant plot. Residents complained that the strays pose a threat to two-wheeler riders and pedestrians, school-going children.

Cattle feeding on garbage in Velachery

Chennai:

Despite several complaints from the residents, the authorities have not taken any action to solve the long-pending issue. “One has to cover nostrils while walking down the road sue to the stench emanating from the piles of garbage. In addition, stray dogs which roam around the garbage often chase motorists and pedestrians,” S Gopal, who works at a tea shop near Venkatesan Nagar, said. He added that milk vendors avoid the road in the morning due to the same reason.

A senior official from the civic body said that he was aware of the issue and the vacant land belongs to a trust. He added that the trust has been instructed to build a fence around the plot. “Besides, the public should also be aware of the fact that indiscriminately dumping garbage, especially during the rainy season, will cause mosquito breeding.

Regarding the illegal parking issue, the official said that it is up to the landowner to maintain it properly. The official claimed that the garbage is being collected in trucks by Corporation staff every day and still the public litter the area.

S Shivakumar, another resident of Venkatesan Nagar, pointed out that the locality lacks street lights. This leads to many accidents as cattle on the road are not visible at night. He added that garbage floats in rainwater when the area gets flooded. “Strict rules should be implemented and a heavy fine must be slapped on offenders,” he added.

Also, he expressed concern over the mosquito menace and how it will increase in the coming months.

If you notice any civic issues unattended by authorities, please write to us with a photograph at citizen.dtnext@dt.co.in